In cases of employment discrimination, what can a plaintiff's wrongdoing impact?

In cases of employment discrimination, the plaintiff's wrongdoing can significantly impact the employer's liability for damages. If the plaintiff engaged in misconduct that can be demonstrated as a substantial factor in their termination or adverse employment action, it may reduce or eliminate the employer's liability. Courts often consider the actions of both parties when determining the outcomes of such cases, including whether the employer had just cause for their actions, thereby affecting the overall damages awarded to the plaintiff.

This understanding is crucial in discrimination cases, as it underscores the importance of both the employer's and the employee's behavior in judicial assessments. This principle allows the legal system to evaluate whether the termination or discrimination was justified, given the circumstances surrounding both the employer's decision-making and the employee's actions.